Two shallow wells moving together

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In summary, the problem involves a particle in two shallow one-dimensional potential wells that gradually merge into a single well. The WKB approximation can be used to find the probability of the particle remaining bound, but the specific function of the potential is not given, making it difficult to find the overlap. Both individuals working on the problem are unsure of how to proceed.
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WalkThePlanck
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Homework Statement



Particle is placed in a field of two shallow one-dimensional potential wells approaching each so that:

##V(x,t)=U(x-\frac{L(t)}{2})+U(x+\frac{L(t)}{2})##

(Reminder: shallow well is a well that can support only one bound state). At t=-∞ the wells are infinitely far apart from each other and the particle is bound by one of them. The distance between the wells L(t) very slowly decreases so that at some instant they fuse into single well V(x)=2U(x) which still remains shallow. What is the probability that the particle will remain bound?

2. The attempt at a solution

I'm not really sure how to start this. I was thinking of using the WKB approximation to find wavefunctions before and after and finding the overlap by treating the merging of the wells as a sudden perturbation, but since the function of the potential isn't specified I'm not sure how to do that.
 
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  • #2
I am working on this problem too, and am also having issues.

So if we use the WKB approximation, we really just need to find p(x) and p(xo), which will be

$$p(x) = \sqrt{2m} (E-U(x - \frac{L(t)}{2})-U(x+\frac{L(t)}{2}))^{1/2}$$

right? I'm not sure what else to do with it though.
 

Related to Two shallow wells moving together

1. What is meant by "two shallow wells moving together" in the context of science?

"Two shallow wells moving together" refers to a phenomenon observed in hydrogeology, where two wells located in close proximity to each other exhibit similar changes in water levels over time. This can be caused by the wells tapping into the same groundwater source and reacting to external factors, such as pumping or natural fluctuations, in a synchronized manner.

2. How are the movements of two shallow wells measured and recorded?

The movements of two shallow wells can be measured and recorded using various techniques, such as manual measurements with a water level tape, automated data loggers, or satellite-based technologies like Interferometric Synthetic Aperture Radar (InSAR). These methods allow for accurate and continuous monitoring of the changes in water levels between the two wells.

3. What are some potential causes of two shallow wells moving together?

There are several potential causes for two shallow wells to move together, including hydraulic connectivity between the wells, shared groundwater sources, and similar geological conditions. Other factors such as pumping rates, seasonal changes, and drought can also contribute to the synchronization of the wells' movements.

4. Can the movements of two shallow wells provide any useful information for water resource management?

Yes, the movements of two shallow wells can provide valuable information for water resource management. By monitoring the synchronized changes in water levels, scientists and stakeholders can better understand the hydrological processes and make informed decisions for sustainable water management and resource allocation.

5. Are there any potential risks associated with two shallow wells moving together?

There can be risks associated with two shallow wells moving together, such as overexploitation of the shared groundwater source, depletion of water supply, and potential impacts on nearby ecosystems. It is important to carefully monitor and manage the movements of these wells to prevent any negative consequences and ensure the sustainability of the water resource.

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